The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has filed a lawsuit against MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and its Chief Executive Officer, John Ugbe, over claims that the company ignored regulatory directives and obstructed an active investigation.
The case, now before the Federal High Court in Lagos, includes allegations that MultiChoice proceeded with a price increase despite explicit instructions from the FCCPC to halt the adjustment. The Commission argues that this violates Section 33(4) of the FCCPC Act. Additionally, the company is accused of failing to comply with an order to suspend the price review, contravening Section 110. The FCCPC further alleges that MultiChoice attempted to mislead regulators by implementing the hike without addressing concerns raised by the Commission, an offense under Section 159(2) and punishable under Section 159(4)(a) and (b) of the FCCPA 2018 Act.
The controversy began on February 24, 2025, when MultiChoice announced new rates for its DStv and GOtv subscription packages, set to take effect from March 1, 2025. The development sparked widespread criticism, particularly because it came less than a year after the company’s last price revision. This led to intervention from the FCCPC, which issued a directive on February 27, 2025, instructing MultiChoice to maintain existing rates until an investigative hearing could be conducted.
However, the FCCPC asserts that MultiChoice ignored this directive and proceeded with the planned price increase, which it views as a clear breach of consumer protection and competition laws.
The Commission stated that the company’s actions “flouted regulatory processes” and reflected “a pattern of conduct that undermines consumer rights and fair competition.”
In addition to the lawsuit, the FCCPC has indicated that it is reviewing further enforcement measures, including possible sanctions and regulatory interventions, to ensure compliance with its directives.
The Commission reassured Nigerians of its commitment to safeguarding consumer interests and preventing exploitative business practices. It vowed to hold dominant industry players accountable and ensure that market regulations are strictly adhered to.
